Solar and terrestrial radiation and absorption

Now that we have discussed both the atmosphere and radiation, let’s look at how they interact with one another.

Watch Dr. Nathan B. English explain how solar radiation enters the atmosphere, the impact solar and terrestrial radiation have on the atmosphere and how greenhouse gases increase the effectiveness of our atmosphere’s ability to trap heat and energy.

Now it’s your turn

In this video, Dr. English compares the atmosphere to both a ‘piggy bank’ and a hotel in which sunlight checks in but it never checks out. Now that you have a clearer understanding of the science, what other comparisons could you use to explain the interaction between radiation and the atmosphere? Share your thoughts in the comments.